12 Defensive Driving Tips to Avoid an Auto Accident

After driving for decades, most people feel that they are safe drivers who know all the rules of the road. Still, even the safest drivers with plenty of miles logged can get into a car accident. By car insurance industry estimates, an average driver will file a claim once every 18 years. Based on that average, a driver will have been involved in nearly 9 accidents by the time they are 70-years-old.

All drivers know that not everyone drives well, even if most people think they do. Defensive driving is one way you can help lower the risk of an accident while behind the wheel.

Defensive driving is considered a driving skill you can use to defend yourself against road hazards, including reckless drivers, poor weather, or objects on the road. Here are some defensive driving tips to help you keep everyone in your vehicle safe.

Avoid distractions, including daydreaming or getting lost in thought.

Stay alert and be prepared to react to other drivers.

Maintain a safe distance when driving behind another vehicle.

Anticipate what another driver may do.

Adjust your speed as needed. The posted speed limit is ideal, but you should slow down during bad weather conditions.

Take advantage of safety devices, like seatbelts and collision warning systems, but don’t rely on them.

Plan for an emergency. Whether it’s making sure your spare tire is safe for use or keeping an emergency kit in the car – plan for the unexpected.

Respect other users of the roadway, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Monitor your blind spot and stay out of others’ blind spots.

Keep up with vehicle maintenance, such as keeping tires properly inflated.

Look far ahead of your vehicle in order to anticipate problems like slow traffic or highway debris.

Remember, you can take a defensive driving course through a certified provider in-person or online. Though these courses cost money, it’s a great refresher that can help keep you safe behind the wheel.

If you are hurt in a crash, it’s important that you know what to do next, which should be to get medical treatment. In Florida, you must get your accident injuries documented within 14 days of a crash to be eligible for any personal injury protection insurance benefits.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Les Pachter moved to South Florida with his family at an early age. After attending the University of South Florida, he went on to receive his Doctor of Chiropractic from Life Chiropractic College, and has now been in practice for 28 years. Dr. Pachter is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP), and is a current member of the Business Network International.